Toxicologists of African Origin (TAO)

President’s Message

Greetings Colleagues and Friends,
It was a true joy to come together and connect with so many of you at the TAO reception during the SOT Annual Meeting in San Diego.

I am both honored and humbled by your support as I serve as the TAO President for the 2026–2027 term. I am incredibly excited about the opportunities ahead and the impact we will create together.  I am pleased to extend my warmest welcome and sincere appreciation to the 2026–2027 TAO Executive Board. I look forward to collaborating with each of you in the year ahead as we work together to advance our shared goals and strengthen our community.

TAO was created to champion and elevate diversity and inclusion within the Society of Toxicology. We are dedicated to supporting the professional growth and representation of toxicologists of African descent, while advancing scientific excellence in the communities we serve. What began as a focused initiative has evolved into a dynamic and growing network of mentors, leaders, and changemakers across the African continent and diaspora, representing a wide range of fields, including industry, academia, government, NGOs, and public health.

Over the years, we have built meaningful momentum through engaging webinars, impactful mentorship, and scholarship opportunities, while establishing a strong and visible presence at the SOT Annual Meetings. This progress reflects the power of our shared commitment—but there is still more we can achieve together. By continuing to show up stronger and bolder in our presence, we can further elevate our impact and expand what is possible for our organization and community.
I encourage each of you to take a more active role in shaping the future of TAO—whether by joining a committee, stepping forward to lead initiatives, or continuing to show up and engage with our Special Interest Group. TAO holds a deep personal significance for me because it reflects who we are—a community grounded in excellence, united in purpose, and committed to uplifting one another as we grow.

Our strength lies in our collective spirit. We are a group that consistently shows up, shares knowledge, and creates space for others to succeed. That is what makes TAO so special.

I invite each of you—colleagues and friends—to lean in. Consider joining a committee, leading a webinar, or bringing forward your ideas, energy, and perspective. If you have suggestions for the year ahead, I encourage you to contact me or any member of the board—we want to hear from you.

I am excited to build on TAO’s meaningful momentum—with the strength of an engaged and committed membership. Together, we can continue shaping something impactful and enduring.

All the Best,
Kristin Noell-Harris, PhD

2025–2026 TAO President